does any one know why binding is on the bias and not on the straight grain?

it is supposed to be stronger. that is what I understand. I don't do bias binding. I just cut the long ways on my fabric depending on the fabric. it works just fine for me.

It's not always cut on the bias. It's a personal choice.

Advantages of bias binding:

1- Great effect if the fabric is straight stripes - they'll end up diagonal. I've used this many times for a really striking look.

2- if your quilt is going to get a ton of wear and will be washed often, the binding might start to fray. If it's cut on the bias, it's stronger. Imagine if it were cut regular (straight) and wore down a bit - the entire side would be vulnerable because it would be the same string of thread (from the warp/welt) running down that strip. Does that make sense? I don't think I explained it well.

Advantage of straight bias:
Easier to cut and estimate fabric needed.

I think it's good to understand both methods and how to work the features so you get the best result for your particular project (and fabric).

Some say it's easier to work with the bias binding. I didn't really find any differences between the two. Also, I've seen people got their binding along the length of the fabric, not width, so they don't have to join the strips.

Again, it's a choice. Personally, I'd rather join the strips than deal with cutting 108" of 2" strips. Unless maybe there was something very special line design/pattern on the fabric. Maybe.

I'm sure others will have more to add to the list.

Bias binding is only necessary if the quilt has curved edges. WOF strips work just fine for a straight edge quilt.

Yes, it makes perfect sense to me, a newbie. Thanks for explaining. There are so many gems of info on this board, I learn new stuff every day.

I agree that it is a personal preference :wink: If it isn't going to be an heirloom quality quilt or have curved sides, I would stick with straight grain bias. :D:D:D

I have often cut pieces (approx 4"long and desired width to fold over) of the various prints used in a scrappy quilt; sewn together to make long pieces for binding. Yes, they are on the straight grain, folded, stitched along top edge of quilt then hand stitched on the back. Maybe you can tell from this picture

What is the typical width of bindings?
K

I don't know that there is a typical width. I was in a guild that had two lectures in a row. The first lady said to cut bindings 1 3/4ths for what ever reason. The next month the lady said she cuts hers at 3 inches and uses a wider seam so they make a nice frame.

Width of binding varies by individual and project. Most of mine are 2 1/4" then folded sewn to front and hand stitched to back.

I also us at least a 2 1/2 width - using 3/8 inch seam when sewing to top of quilt then fold as in regular bias tape -